Northview’s three wins last season were the most for the Titans’ program since 2007 but the coaching staff sees the potential for more. “Last year was a tale of two seasons,” said head coach Chad Davenport, entering his fourth year with the program. “We made some mistakes early on but we finished well but the consistent thing is that we needed to be better on defense.” While the Titans averaged 37 points per game on offense last season, the most in Region 7A-AAAAA, the defensive allowed 40 points per contest, the second-most in the same region. Despite the struggles, the Titans were one victory away from a possible postseason berth in the season finale against Pope but dropped the hard-fought contest, 31-28.

The good news for the Titans is that they return nine starters from the defensive unit, including senior linebacker Austin Antwine, who has led Northview in tackles each of the last two seasons. “He’s an excellent high school football player who fits into our system,” said Davenport. “Austin plays his position and does what he’s supposed to do.”

Senior Connor Redmond and sophomores Connor Owens and Joseph McCrena are expected to be in the linebacker rotation as well. The defensive backfield is highlighted by juniors Clay French and Issac Hart along with junior Matt Ferguson.

Junior quarterback DJ Pearson stepped into the starting spot midway though last season and passed for more than 1,900 yards in six games.

“DJ is one of the top junior players in the state,” said Davenport. “We’re looking forward to him having a big year.”

Pearson’s main targets on the outside will be three wide receivers; Hart, senior Connor Seagraves along with junior Matt Biondich. Senior offensive linemen Matt Clover, Hank Clayman and Ryan Siatkowski will anchor the front. “Replacing linemen requires a lot of teaching and time spent away because you can’t go as fast,” said Davenport. “With our returners, we’ve been able to do much more this summer. Overall, we have to play better against top competition. We have the ability to step our game up because this is our largest roster in five years and includes many players with experience at this level.”

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